Preparing for your appointment

You're likely to start by first having your child see his or her pediatrician or family doctor. In some cases, you may be referred immediately to a specialist, such as a pediatric psychiatrist or other mental health provider who specializes in child development.

In rare cases where safety is an issue, your child may require an emergency evaluation in the emergency room and possibly a hospital specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry.

What you can do

Being an active participant in your child's care is critical. Before the appointment make a list of:

Any symptoms you've noticed, including when these symptoms began and how they've changed over time — include specific examples

Key personal information, including any major stresses or recent life changes that may be affecting your child

Any other medical conditions, including mental health problems, that your child has

All medications, vitamins, herbs or other supplements that your child takes, including the dosage

Questions to ask

Make a list of questions to ask the doctor, such as:

What is likely causing my child's symptoms or condition?

What are other possible causes?

What kinds of tests does my child need?

Is my child's condition likely temporary or long term?

How will a diagnosis of childhood schizophrenia affect my child's life?

What's the best treatment for my child?

What specialists does my child need to see?

Who else will be involved in the care of my child?

Are there any brochures or other printed material that I can have? What websites do you recommend?

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